Villa Mairea, located in the midst of a pine forest in Porvoo, Finland, is a striking example of modern architecture designed by renowned architects Aino and Alvar Aalto. The building has recently gained attention as it is one of the candidates proposed to UNESCO for world heritage status, alongside twelve other structures designed by the Aaltos. The submission to UNESCO includes an evaluation by ICOMOS, and the official decision from the World Heritage Committee is expected in July, following preliminary information release in May.

The villa was commissioned by Maire and Harry Gullichsen, who were notable figures in Finnish society, with Maire being the daughter of an industrial magnate and a prominent art patron. Alvar Aalto is celebrated for his significant contributions to modern architecture, and Villa Mairea is regarded as one of his finest works. Its nomination for UNESCO recognition highlights the value of preserving modern architectural heritage in Finland and acknowledges the impact of the Aaltos' innovative designs on contemporary architecture.

Annually, Villa Mairea attracts approximately 6,000 visitors, reflecting its status as a cultural landmark. The anticipation surrounding its potential UNESCO designation underscores the ongoing discourse about the importance of recognizing and preserving unique architectural contributions as part of the world's cultural heritage.